I caught that, and frankly discounted it. I figure that it will cause a lot of talk among Orvillians for a week or two, but probably doesn't mean anything about renewal, any more than the inclusion of a few Orville shots in the New Fox trailer released this week does.*
Truth to tell, I don't expect a renewal.
- The show is very expensive and much more complex as a production than most of Fox's other shows, and the ratings are middling at best for Fox.
- There are too many other Fox shows in stronger shape ratings-wise, and the network is giving a couple of its current scripted hours over to the WWE next season.
- Yes, Fox has an ownership stake in The Orville, but that's also true of every other potential returning show.
- It's tempting to say "Oh, but the California tax break!" but honestly only the network and studio accountants know how that weights the equation, so it's close to wishful thinking to factor it in right now.
- Also seductive: "Fox loves MacFarlane and wants to keep him happy - he has clout!" Which is why Fox is still running Dads, The Winner, Bordertown, The Cleveland Show...
It's customary at this point to add "I'd love to be proven wrong," but I think we know that goes without saying.
*The sizzle reel also contains a couple of moments from Gotham, which is ending in a couple of weeks. Putting together a promotional piece, you work with what you have that people will recognize.